✅ Troubleshoot Outdoor Outlet Issues
It happens to all of us. We are out enjoying and planning our backyard cookout, only to find that the power outlet isn’t working. Now, you’re left running an extension cord out from your living room just to keep the backyard light working. Here’s a simple checklist you can use to determine if the problem is fixable in the moment or if you’ll need to call in an electrician to fix it.
Full Proof Checklist
Before embarking on checking your outlet, first ensure that it truly is the outlet that is not working. Ensure the lights, cords and other devices all work in other known working outlets.
- Check outlets nearby to isolate where the problem is coming from.
- Single outlet broken
- Grouped failure
- Complete home outage (I am reading this blog on my phone)
- Check the breaker: Great, but what am I checking for?
- Look for breaker switches that look slightly off center or have tipped completely to off. If you don’t have them labeled, look for inconsistent flips, but be careful with any power that should remain off, or should not be turned off (medical etc.)
- You can turn off the main power and back on to test other sections of your home to see if the problem creates patterns.
- GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter): Look at you, you just learned what that weird acronym means now. A system that help prevent surges and other irregularities that could affect your end device. This is an outlet, so your outside outlet may have this feature and could have tripped.
- How do I find this GFCI?
- Check your bathrooms, laundry room, kitchen, garage, or basement for outlets with “Test” and “Reset” buttons. You can usually press the reset button to fix this issue.
- Still can’t find the GFCI? It might be time to bring in an expert.
- Never a good idea to just start guessing and hitting buttons. If it’s not clear, it might be best to call in your buddy who wired his house 10 years ago. Or you know an expert who does this sorta thing for a living.
- How do I find this GFCI?
- Check for weather damage and external factors that may have caused the failure.
- Snow or ice buildup
- Impacts from unprotected outlets.
- Rodents or pests
- Check for heat (carefully)
- If your outlet feels warm, smells, or has any marks, please call an expert immediately. You might also want to return to the breaker and turn off the power to this section to ensure no fires or danger.
Tried everything and still no luck?
We’ve got your back. Whether it’s a hidden GFCI, a wiring issue, or just peace of mind you’re after, our team is ready to help.
Count on CasPro for Professional Installations
At CasPro, we are a Clark Public Utilities (CPU) licensed company specializing in residential and commercial electrical installations. Our electricians are all certified and experienced in a variety of fields. If you’re wondering how much to install a Generac generator, contact CasPro today, we’ll guide you through the costs and help you find the right solution for your needs!
